Spanish Harlem by Ben E. King
Key: D · 123 BPM · 4/4
Spanish Harlem by Ben E. King is written in D major. Its chords cycle through the I-IV-I-V progression — plagal + authentic mix, played as a IV-I-V-I rotation: G-D-A-D. At 123 BPM, it moves at a moderate, driving pace.
The progression
This song follows the I-IV-I-V progression (Plagal + authentic mix), played as a IV-I-V-I rotation in D major. Chords are automatically detected — if something looks off, let us know.
Play it in other keys
| Capo | Shape key | Chords to play |
|---|---|---|
| No capo | D | G-D-A |
| Capo 2 | C | F-C-G |
| Capo 5 | A | D-A-E |
| Capo 7 | G | C-G-D |
Chord chart
- 0:00 D
- 0:08 D#
- 0:22 A
- 0:23 G
- 0:33 D
- 0:36 A
- 0:44 D
- 0:57 D#
- 1:00 D
- 1:07 G
- 1:17 D
- 1:20 A
- 1:28 D
- 1:53 G
- 2:00 D
- 2:04 A
- 2:12 D
- 2:18 A
- 2:27 D
Frequently asked questions
What key is Spanish Harlem in?
Spanish Harlem is in D major.
What chords does Spanish Harlem use?
The core of Spanish Harlem cycles through G, D, A (3 chords).
What is the tempo of Spanish Harlem?
Spanish Harlem runs at 123 BPM in 4/4 time.
What chord progression does Spanish Harlem use?
Spanish Harlem follows the I-IV-I-V progression, played as a IV-I-V-I rotation. It's a plagal + authentic mix.
What capo should I use for Spanish Harlem?
No capo needed — D major already sits in standard open-chord shapes.